POD H.W. Bush wins vs Clinton, assasinated shortly thereafter.
As Russia's economy crumbles, President Quayle (somewhat of a space enthusiast ) puts together a stimulus package for Russia to encourage economic stablity and jobs for potentially dangerous Russia rocket scientists.
Large scale programes including some space programes, sub hulls, and other various make work/R&D programes.
Later as finiancal crisis worsens programe expanded to include US goverment backed investment in Siberia and buyout of roubles.
WIth less traumatic economic conditions Yelsin remains in control.
With demostation of US goodwill, less concern about securtiy situation.
Russia remains more democratic.
Later when NATO expansion leads to RUssian concerns, instead of being dismissed, they are countered by quiet suggestions that Russia petetion for admission,
which they do.
NATO now basically includes northern third of globe.